LIBERIAN PREZ: MINERALS FOR THE PEOPLE!

Liberia’s new president has wasted little time explaining his priorities. After beating incumbent George Weah in elections this week, Joseph Boakai is setting his sights on maximising his countries mineral wealth.

Liberia has vast natural resources, but they’ve been exploited by multi-nationals for decades. As a result, there’s been minimal benefit for Liberians, most of whom live below the poverty line.

Can Boakai, a former rubber plantation worker, turn this around? Similar paths have been taken by West African neighbours Niger and Burkina Faso. Liberians are hoping their new leader will deliver on his man-of-the-people image.